Cash injection may not lure dentists

THERE is hope the health subsidies proposed in the Federal Budget will lure dentists and general practitioners to the Southern Downs, but practice manager at Guy St Dental Rebecca Moore doesn't think it's enough.

"Dentists earn a lot of money, so I don't think it's that big of an incentive for them," Mrs Moore said.

The budget set aside $77million over four years to encourage dentists to relocate to regional areas with grants of up to $120,000 and $250,000 to aid in the purchase and fit-out of dental facilities.

"In saying that, it is a very good idea if it would get people out to the country, but I don't know if $120,000 would be enough," Mrs Moore said.

She said moving to the country was a lifestyle many chose to avoid after graduating, yet that's where the demand was.

"People don't understand what a nice lifestyle we have out in the country," Mrs Moore said.

"We are so busy, we could do with another dentist it town to help with our load."

Similarly, a need for GPs in the region has seen a federal announcement of $34.9million during 2012-13 to meet the demand of GPs wanting to move or remain in regional areas.

Queensland Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said he was disappointed with the outcome of funding for Queensland and the Southern Downs.

"Queensland made a very clear submission to the Gillard Government that we required $68.9 million simply to keep pace with the needs of regional Queensland and the answer that came in the budget was that we would be short-changed by more than $7 million," Mr Springborg said.